On March 25, 2026, Prime Minister Sven Schulze presented the Saxony-Anhalt Business Award. With this award, the state is recognizing—for the second time—companies and startups that are shaping Saxony-Anhalt’s economic development through innovation, entrepreneurial spirit, and dedication. This year’s winners represent the diversity of the region’s business landscape—from high-growth small and medium-sized enterprises to innovative technology startups.
The Prime Minister emphasized: “Especially in times of transformation, a shortage of skilled workers, and global competition, the potential of Saxony-Anhalt becomes clear: a high level of innovation, a strong drive to shape the future, and the courage to break new ground. Our award winners exemplify this strength—they turn ideas into successful business models and thereby make an important contribution to growth, employment, and the future of our state.”
Two award winners with different strengths
In the “Company” category, Alpha Signs GmbH from Landsberg was honored. The company is one of the leading manufacturers of signage and illuminated advertising systems in Central Germany and now employs more than 100 people. With strong growth, targeted investments in modern manufacturing technologies, and digitized production processes, Alpha Signs sets standards in efficiency and quality. CAD-based design, CNC and laser technology, as well as cloud-based project management, enable highly flexible and innovative implementation of a wide variety of customer projects.
In addition to its economic development, the company stands out for its commitment to securing a skilled workforce—including through its own training programs, partnerships with schools and universities, and modern work models. Its strong regional roots are also evident in local partnerships and support for clubs and initiatives.
In the “Start-up” category, CYNiO GmbH from Bitterfeld-Wolfen was honored. CYNiO GmbH from Bitterfeld-Wolfen is developing a patented process for the production of specialty isocyanates based on CO₂, thereby setting new standards for more sustainable and flexible production processes in the chemical industry.
Founded in 2025, the startup was able to establish its own laboratory, initiate international collaborations, and secure its first orders within a short period of time. With its technology, CYNiO is tapping into niche markets in particular where specialty chemicals that were previously difficult to obtain are needed, thereby underscoring the company’s high potential for innovation and growth.
The jury chair, State Secretary Stefanie Pötzsch, stated:
“The nominees for the Saxony-Anhalt Business Award represent the many dedicated companies and founders in the state who, with their ideas, sense of responsibility, and commitment, contribute significantly to Saxony-Anhalt’s economic development. Especially in times of change, they are a key driver of growth and future viability.”
Strong Participation and Broad Economic Diversity
A total of 66 companies applied for the 2026 Saxony-Anhalt Business Award—39 in the “Company” category and 27 in the “Start-ups” category.
The range of submissions spans from established medium-sized businesses to technology-oriented industrial companies and innovative startups. Criteria evaluated included economic development, innovative capacity, securing a skilled workforce, and responsibility toward the region and society.
Economic Award as a Platform for the Region
The Saxony-Anhalt Economic Award is presented every two years and aims to highlight economic successes, strengthen role models, and raise the region’s profile in a sustainable manner. The award winners are integrated into the state’s communications as ambassadors of Saxony-Anhalt’s success.
More information: www.wirtschaftspreis-sachsen-anhalt.de
Portraits of the nominees and image material can be found in the press kit.
Photos of the award ceremony can be found here.